Cortez Tragedy: Son Charged After Accidental Shooting Claims Life of 76-Year-Old Andrew Douglas
CORTEZ, CO — A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the quiet community of Cortez, Colorado, after a fatal shooting on Tuesday, July 29, claimed the life of 76-year-old Andrew Douglas, a longtime resident and beloved father. Authorities say the fatal shot was allegedly fired by Douglas’s own son in what appears to be a devastating accident, leading to both grief and criminal charges.
The Cortez Police Department responded to a distress call just after noon at a private residence in a rural neighborhood, where they found Mr. Douglas suffering from a critical gunshot wound. First responders administered emergency aid, but sadly, the elderly man succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The shooter, identified as Mr. Douglas’s adult son, was immediately detained and later charged in connection with the incident. Although investigators believe the shooting was accidental, the case has resulted in serious legal consequences as officials continue to probe the exact circumstances leading to the tragic death.
A Community in Mourning
News of the incident spread quickly throughout the tight-knit town of Cortez, where Andrew Douglas was a well-known figure. A retired mechanic and Army veteran, he was cherished by neighbors for his generosity, his commitment to family, and his warm, welcoming nature. Friends described him as someone who “would help anyone without hesitation” and who took great pride in his family, particularly his relationship with his son.
That close father-son bond has made this loss even more painful — not only for the family but for the entire community. According to those who knew them, the two were virtually inseparable and shared a deep connection rooted in shared hobbies like fishing, woodworking, and watching classic western films together.
“This is just absolutely tragic,” said neighbor Rebecca Miles. “Andrew adored his son, and you could see it in everything he did. He was always talking about him — they were more like best friends than father and son.”
An Apparent Accident with Legal Consequences
While the investigation is still ongoing, early reports from law enforcement suggest the shooting may have occurred while the son was handling a firearm inside the home. Officials are examining whether proper safety precautions were followed, and whether negligence or recklessness may have contributed to the discharge.
In a public statement, the Cortez Police Department said:
“We are treating this as an active investigation into a fatal shooting. At this time, evidence suggests the incident may have been accidental, but charges have been filed to ensure a full legal review. Our hearts go out to the Douglas family, who are enduring an unimaginable tragedy.”
The son, whose name has not been released publicly, faces preliminary charges that could include criminally negligent homicide and reckless discharge of a firearm, pending the results of the investigation. Authorities have emphasized that the charges do not imply intent but reflect the severity of the outcome and the need for accountability.
A Town Grieves
In the wake of the tragedy, grief counselors have been made available at local churches and senior centers, and community members are organizing a candlelight vigil in memory of Andrew Douglas. Friends and relatives are also rallying around the surviving family, offering meals, comfort, and financial support to cover funeral arrangements.
The incident has prompted renewed calls for gun safety awareness, especially in homes where firearms are present. Local officials are encouraging residents to ensure that all weapons are securely stored and handled with extreme caution to prevent future tragedies.
Remembering Andrew Douglas
Born and raised in Montezuma County, Andrew Douglas was a pillar of the Cortez community. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, he returned home to build a quiet life focused on family, hard work, and simple pleasures. He worked for over 30 years at a local auto shop, where customers admired both his skill and his honesty.
He leaves behind a grieving son, extended family, and countless friends who will remember his wisdom, his gentle humor, and the kindness that defined his life.
“He was the kind of man you could always count on,” said longtime friend Larry Pritchard. “Andrew had lived through a lot, and he always managed to stay grounded, caring, and strong. This loss is just too heavy to describe.”
As the legal process unfolds, the community is being urged to treat the matter with sensitivity. The tragedy is not just about a loss of life — it is also about a family that has been forever altered, a son left in deep sorrow, and a town struggling to comprehend a senseless and avoidable incident.
Rest in peace, Andrew Douglas. Your life was one of quiet strength and steadfast love — and your memory will live on in the hearts of those you touched.